At sixty-one, I discovered I lacked real relationships but had inherited riches. Having both of my parents gone, I had inherited their opulent house but felt a great void inside. My contacts with women seemed shallow, as though they were more concerned in my money than in me personally. It was around this period that I had a transforming meeting with a homeless woman that would impart the real worth of empathy.

One day I was going about my daily business when I came into a woman sorting trash. Though she looked frayed, I noticed a spark of resiliency in her eyes. I couldn’t simply ignore things. Inspired by something very deep within me, I went to her and gave her space in my garage. It was warm and safe, a haven where she may find some quiet.

Lexi was her name. We started to tell our experiences as she got used to her new home. She let me know how her life had collapsed following her husband’s departure for another woman. I found great resonance in her strength and thankfulness given her situation.

Living with Lexi offered fresh fulfilment and direction. I connected with her in ways I hadn’t felt in a very long time. Assuming she was gone as usual, I went into the garage without knocking one fateful afternoon. I had no idea that this would be the turning point in life.

What I saw startled me as the door opened. Before me stood Lexi, but she changed. Gone was the messy look, replaced with a woman radiating confidence and brilliance. I felt as though I was seeing a quite different person.

I knew then that I had undervalued Lexi’s fortitude and will. She had seized the chance I presented and turned her life around. She had then also imparted to me an insightful lesson on the need of compassion.

This encounter with Lexi let me see the beauty and possibilities that each human being possesses independent of their situation. It made me realize that real connections are based on empathy and understanding rather than financial success. From that day on, I promised myself to see people for who they really are—above their outward appearances or situation—and to approach my interactions with a fresh sense of compassion.

Lexi first seemed to be a stranger, but she grew to be a regular feature in my life. She showed me by her tenacity and will that compassion and kindness create real connections. And I shall always be thanks for that.